You finally get a chance to go away on your hard-earned vacation.  Sure, you can go online. But are the web sites asking you the right questions to make sure you get the best trip for your needs? And are they there for you when you run into a problem, especially these days with so many COVID snafus? There is another way.  Good travel consultants are one of the world’s best values. There are many benefits.

You can’t VIP yourself.  You can tell a hotel all you want or use a special card, but when it comes right down to it, you are no different than the millions of others with the same card. We have a special relationship already established with hoteliers – an email from us letting them know OUR valued client is coming usually results in upgrades and other special amenities.

We have insider knowledge and access. I’ve most likely been there, probably sent a client there, and definitely have a partner there. Anything can look good on the web. I have specialized knowledge to maximize your experience. I have people with whom I work in nearly every country in the world who can help with arrangements, advice, and the insider access you cannot get on your own.  Plus, this may be your only trip there – you want to make sure you do it right.

We can add value financially. Travel consultants are the best deal out there.  We know how to find the best values just for our clients. Whether it is adding a complimentary breakfast or shore excursion, knowing the best airline combinations, which seasons can save you money, or providing tips on when a tour is worth it versus going on your own. We are paid by the places you go and things you do, and it costs the same or less if we book it versus you. Plus, our volume allows discounts on many hotels, car rental companies, and some air.

We advocate for you. With so many moving parts, things happen when you travel. Rather than fight on your own, I will be right there to make sure you are treated fairly and taken care of so you arrive on time and with luggage. We have seen in recent months the hassles that can happen – it is nice to have someone on the other end of the phone.  Especially with COVID, it is nice to have someone keep track of changing airline schedules as well as country, hotel, and museum closings.  And, fighting for your refunds or travel credits!

We are trained to know how to help you.  Your friend just returned from Aruba and said you have to go.  My first question is not when, but rather, what are you looking for?  When you tell me you want a gorgeous, lush, Caribbean island, you will be glad when I recommend against Aruba, a dry arid desert-like island.  Not only do I know the world, but I also am highly trained in understanding customers and what they want. If you don’t want to believe me, here are some articles for you.

http://www.travelmarketreport.com/articles/Heres-Why-You-Should-Use-A-Travel-Agent-Instead-Of-Booking-Online

https://www.travelmarketreport.com/articles/10-Reasons-You-Should-Use-a-Travel-Agent-in-2019

https://www.tripsavvy.com/reasons-to-use-a-travel-agent-3259812

http://www.travelmarketreport.com/articles/10-Ways-Travel-Agents-Add-Value-to-Your-Vacationhttp://www.travelmarketreport.com/articles/Six-Things-A-Travel-Agent-Knows-That-Customers-Do-Not

https://www.forbes.com/sites/christopherelliott/2020/05/14/this-is-why-you-need-a-travel-advisor-for-your-           post-pandemic-vacation/